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RNS Number : 2109E New Frontier Minerals Limited 09 April 2025
9 April 2025
New Frontier Minerals Limited
("NFM" or the "Company")
Heavy Rare Earths Dominant at Harts Range Project, Northern Territory
New Frontier Minerals Ltd (ASX: NFM), is a mineral explorer and developer
focussed on demand-driven commodities in Australia. The Company has undertaken
rare earth distribution analysis of 25 rock chip samples from the primary Cusp
and Bobs Prospects at the Harts Range Project, which is located 140km
north-east of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. The initial key
findings show high-value, heavy rare earths in particular Dysprosium Oxide
(11.75%) and Terbium Oxide (1.87%), underscoring substantial exploration
potential.
Highlights:
· Analysis of samples from Cusp and Bobs Prospects reveals a dominance
towards high-value, Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREE)
· Results highlighting up to 11.75% Dysprosium Oxide and 1.87% Terbium
Oxide within the Total Rare Earth Element (TREO) mix
· US tariffs have resulted in China restricting exports of seven
categories of medium and heavy rare earths-namely Samarium, Gadolinium,
Dysprosium, Terbium, Lutetium, Scandium, and Yttrium-related items, commencing
4 April, 2025(10)
· The demand for rare earth elements continues to grow due to their
critical role in various industries including defence and high-tech
industries:
o The development of domestic supply chains by the US Department of Defence
(DOD) to ensure continued access to rare earth materials needed for permanent
magnets used in key U.S. military weapons
Ged Hall, Chairman, commented: "The initial analysis at the Cusp and Bobs
Prospects of the Harts Range Project has revealed a strong dominance of heavy
rare earth elements, in particular Dysprosium and Terbium, which is highly
encouraging. China's recent announcement to restrict the export of these
critical heavy rare earths highlights the urgent need for alternative sources
of supply.
These elements are essential for defence applications and are predominantly
supplied and controlled by China, making their availability increasingly rare
and strategically important. New Frontier is well-placed to seize this unique
opportunity to explore and develop new sources of heavy rare earths at the
Harts Range Project."
DOMINANT HEAVY RARE EARTH DISTRIBUTION
Rare earth distribution analysis was undertaken on 13 mineralised rock chip
samples (Appendix A) from the outcropping pegmatite at the Cusp Prospect.
Using a Rare Earth Oxide (REO) average of the 13 samples, analysis has
confirmed the mineralisation at Cusp to be consistently skewed and dominant
towards Heavy Rare Earths (HRE).
Figure 1: Distribution of Dysprosium and Terbium rich mineralisation at Cusp
Prospect
The rare earth sample distribution at Cusp is particularly rich in Dysprosium
(11.76%, Dy(2)O(3)) and Terbium (1.18%, Tb(4)O(7)), with a rare earth basket
that comprises over 92% heavy rare earth minerals (Figure 1). The combined
Dysprosium and Terbium distribution at the Cusp Prospect makes up 13.63% of
the total rare earth oxide (TREO) basket mix.
Distribution analysis was also undertaken at the Bobs Prospect, using a Rare
Earth Oxide (REO) average of 12 mineralised rock chip samples (Appendix A)
from the outcropping pegmatites. Like Cusp, the distribution analysis at Bobs
has confirmed a high concentration of Heavy Rare Earths (HRE) mineralisation,
particularly rich in Dysprosium (Dy) and Terbium (Tb) (Figure 2).
The rare earth distribution at Bobs showed higher Yttrium (71.06%, Y(2)O(3))
while still rich in heavy lanthanides Dysprosium (8.75%, Dy(2)O(3)) and
Terbium (1.18%, Tb(4)O(7)). The overall heavy rare earth basket mix at Bobs
was higher, comprising over 97% heavy rare earths.
The combined Dysprosium and Terbium distribution at the Bobs Prospect makes up
9.93% of the total rare earth oxide (TREO) basket mix.
The Bobs Prospect is located 1.6km along strike from Cusp and sits on the same
major east-west trending structure, with similar mineralisation and geological
setting.
Figure 2: Distribution of Dysprosium and Terbium rich mineralisation at Bobs
Prospect
INTRODUCTION TO RARE EARTH ELEMENTS
Rare earths are a group of 15 elements in the periodic table known as the
Lanthanide series. They are categorised into Light Rare Earths (Lanthanum to
Samarium) and Heavy Rare Earths (Europium to Lutetium)(4) but can also include
Yttrium and Scandium.
Although rare earth elements are relatively abundant in the Earth's crust,
their geochemical properties cause them to be widely dispersed. As a result,
they are rarely found in economically viable concentrations. This scarcity of
easily accessible deposits is what earned them the name "rare earths".
Rare earth elements are critical for technologies aimed at reducing emissions,
lowering energy consumption, and improving efficiency, performance, speed,
durability, and thermal stability. They also play a vital role in advancing
technologies aimed at making products lighter and more compact(4).
DYSPROSIUM AND TERBIUM RARE EARTH PRICES
As of 4 April, 2025, Shanghai Metals Market(7) have quoted the average market
prices for Dysprosium and Terbium rare earths as follows:
Dysprosium (Metal): US$253.13/kg(7)
Terbium (Metal):
US$983.45/kg(7)
THE ESSENTIAL ROLE OF HEAVY RARE EARTH ELEMENTS IN PERMANENT MAGNETS
Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs) are crucial for enhancing the performance of
Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) permanent magnets, which already rely on Light
Rare Earth Elements like Neodymium (Nd) and Praseodymium (Pr).
The incorporation of Dysprosium (Dy) and Terbium (Tb) into NdFeB magnets
significantly improves their coercive strength and increases resistance to
demagnetisation at elevated temperatures(2). This enables electric vehicle
motors to operate at much higher temperatures compared to magnets lacking Dy
and Tb. This capability is crucial for ensuring the efficiency and reliability
of electric vehicles in diverse operating conditions.
GLOBAL DEMAND FOR DYSPROSIUM: GROWTH OUTLOOK AND MARKET TRENDS
The global demand for Dysprosium reached USD 1,002.2 million in 2024 and is
anticipated to grow by 4.9% year-over-year in 2025, bringing total revenue to
USD 1,054.3 million by the end of the year. Looking ahead, this demand is
expected to surge to USD 1,750.3 million by 2035, with a compound annual
growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035(1).
The steady growth in demand for Dysprosium is driven by its increasing demand
across a variety of industries. As a vital component in the production of
high-performance magnets, Dysprosium plays a pivotal role in advancing
technologies that are essential to modern industries.
Dysprosium is most widely used in Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) magnets, which
are critical for applications in Electric Vehicles (EVs), wind turbines,
consumer electronics and other high-tech products.
As the demand for cleaner energy solutions and more efficient technologies
grows, Dysprosium's role in driving these innovations is becoming more
significant.
CHINA'S DOMINANCE IN GLOBAL HREE SUPPLY AND REFINING CAPACITY
China controls 90% of global rare earth processing capacity, including its
HREE supply from Myanmar. It remains the dominant producer of Dysprosium Oxide
and leads the world in refining capacity(3).
China's control extends beyond production, as it also leads the world in
refining capacity. With the exception of a small facility in Vietnam, China is
the only country with operational Heavy Rare Earth Element (HREE) separation
plants. Additional separation facilities outside of China include Iluka
Resources' rare earth refinery which will have the capacity to process a
variety of feedstocks, including those from third-party producers. Starting in
2027, Iluka will begin producing a range of rare earth oxides, including
Neodymium, Praseodymium, Dysprosium, Terbium and others(6).
It is expected that China will maintain its dominant position in the HREE
supply chain, with only limited global diversification. Given China's
disproportionate role in these critical raw materials and the lack of viable
alternative heavy rare earth production facilities, many OECD countries are
increasingly looking for alternative supply options.
The scarcity of significant heavy rare earth resources outside of China,
combined with the global push to diversify away from Chinese dominance, has
created a favorable outlook for the future of heavy rare earths. This presents
a unique opportunity for New Frontier Minerals to explore and develop new
heavy rare earth sources, particularly at its Harts Range Project.
THE CRITICAL ROLE OF PERMANENT MAGNETS IN DEFENCE
The U.S. Department of Defence (DOD) is advancing efforts to build domestic
supply chains for rare earth materials, crucial for manufacturing permanent
magnets used in key military systems. These magnets are vital for technologies
like the F-35 aircraft, Virginia and Columbia-class submarines, and UAVs, as
well as commercial applications such as radar and electrical generation
systems(8) (Figures 3 and 4).
Rare earth magnets are used in various Defence systems, including Tomahawk
missiles, radar systems, and smart bombs. The F-35 requires over 900 pounds of
rare earth materials, while a Virginia-class submarine requires up to 9,200
pounds. These materials are also essential in other systems, such as
vehicle-mounted laser rangefinders and sonar equipment(8).
Defence applications represent a significant and growing portion of rare earth
demand, particularly for heavy rare earth elements. Heavy rare earth elements
(HREEs) such as Dysprosium, Terbium, and Yttrium are especially crucial for
Defence applications, as they are key components in high-performance magnets,
lasers, and aerospace technology. Due to their limited availability and
strategic significance, these elements often fetch prices 5 to 10 times higher
than light rare earths(9).
Currently, the U.S. has limited domestic production, with only one active rare
earth mine. The DOD aims to expand domestic capacity by investing in
facilities for mining, separation, processing, and magnet production. This
effort is critical to reducing U.S. reliance on foreign sources, particularly
China, and ensuring national security by securing a stable supply of rare
earth materials.
Figure 3: F-35 aircraft requires over 900 pounds of rare earth materials(8)
Figure 4: Virginia-class submarine, contains up to 9,200 pounds of rare
earths(8)
( )
REFERENCES
1)
https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/dysprosium-market#:~:text=This%20demand%20is%20projected%20to,earth%20element%20across%20different%20industries
(https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/dysprosium-market#:~:text=This%20demand%20is%20projected%20to,earth%20element%20across%20different%20industries)
.
2)
https://www.arnoldmagnetics.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Important-Role-of-Dysprosium-in-Modern-Permanent-Magnets-150906.pdf
(https://www.arnoldmagnetics.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Important-Role-of-Dysprosium-in-Modern-Permanent-Magnets-150906.pdf)
3)
https://globalwitness.org/en/campaigns/transition-minerals/fuelling-the-future-poisoning-the-present-myanmars-rare-earth-boom/
(https://globalwitness.org/en/campaigns/transition-minerals/fuelling-the-future-poisoning-the-present-myanmars-rare-earth-boom/)
4) https://lynasrareearths.com/about-us/what-are-rare-earths/
(https://lynasrareearths.com/about-us/what-are-rare-earths/)
5)
https://www.adamasintel.com/new-report-rare-earth-magnet-market-outlook-to-2040/
(https://www.adamasintel.com/new-report-rare-earth-magnet-market-outlook-to-2040/)
6)
https://www.iluka.com/operations-resource-development/resource-development/eneabba/
(https://www.iluka.com/operations-resource-development/resource-development/eneabba/)
7) https://www.metal.com/Rare-Earth-Metals
(https://www.metal.com/Rare-Earth-Metals)
8)
https://www.Defence.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3700059/dod-looks-to-establish-mine-to-magnet-supply-chain-for-rare-earth-materials/
(https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3700059/dod-looks-to-establish-mine-to-magnet-supply-chain-for-rare-earth-materials/)
9)
https://discoveryalert.com.au/news-article/defence-critical-materials-australia-strategy-2025/#:~:text=Defence%20applications%20represent%20a%20significant,batteries%2C%20and%20advanced%20electrical%20systems
(https://discoveryalert.com.au/news-article/defence-critical-materials-australia-strategy-2025/#:~:text=Defense%20applications%20represent%20a%20significant,batteries%2C%20and%20advanced%20electrical%20systems)
10)
https://www.reuters.com/world/china-hits-back-us-tariffs-with-rare-earth-export-controls-2025-04-04/
(https://www.reuters.com/world/china-hits-back-us-tariffs-with-rare-earth-export-controls-2025-04-04/)
For further information please contact
New Frontier Minerals Limited +61 8 6558 0886
Gerrard Hall (UK), Chairman
SI Capital Limited (Financial Adviser and Corporate Broker) +44 (0)1483 413500
Nick Emerson
Gracechurch Group (Financial PR) +44 (0)20 4582 3500
Harry Chathli, Alexis Gore, Henry Gamble
About New Frontier Minerals
New Frontier Minerals Limited is an Australian-based focussed explorer, with a
strategy to develop multi-commodity assets that demonstrate future potential
as an economic mining operation. Through the application of disciplined and
structured exploration, New Frontier has identified assets deemed core and is
actively progressing these interests up the value curve. Current focus will be
on advancing exploration activity at the Harts Range Niobium, Uranium and
Heavy Rare Earths Project which is circa 140km north-east from Alice Springs
in the Northern Territory.
Other interests include the NWQ Copper Project, situated in the copper-belt
district circa 150km north of Mt Isa in Queensland and the Broken Hill Project
in western New South Wales.
New Frontier Minerals is listed on the LSE and ASX under the ticker "NFM".
Competent Persons Statement
The scientific and technical information in this announcement, which relates
to exploration results and the geology of the deposits described, is based on
information compiled and approved for release by Mark Biggs. Mark Biggs is a
Member of The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM Member #
107188) and meets the requirements of a Competent Person as defined by the
2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results,
Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC Code 2012 Edition). Mark Biggs has 35
years of experience relevant to Rare Earth Elements (REE), industrial mineral
copper mineralisation types, as well as expertise in the quality and potential
mining methods of the deposits under consideration. Additionally, he has 25
years of experience in the estimation, assessment, and evaluation of
exploration results and mineral resource estimates, which are the activities
for which he accepts responsibility. He also successfully completed an AusIMM
Online Course Certificate in 2012 JORC Code Reporting. Mark Biggs is a
consultant with ROM Resources and was engaged by New Frontier Minerals Limited
to prepare the documentation for several prospects, specifically those within
the Harts Range Prospects upon which the Report is based.
Furthermore, the full nature of the relationship between himself and New
Frontier Minerals Limited has been disclosed, including any potential
conflicts of interest. Mark Biggs is a director of ROM Resources, a company
that is a shareholder of New Frontier Minerals Limited, and ROM Resources
provides occasional geological consultancy services to New Frontier Minerals
Limited.
The Report or excerpts referenced in this statement have been reviewed,
ensuring that they are based on and accurately reflect, in both form and
context, the supporting documentation relating to exploration results and any
mineral resource estimates. The release of the Report and this statement has
been consented to by the Directors of New Frontier Minerals Limited.
Forward Looking Statements
Certain information in this document refers to the intentions of New Frontier
Minerals Ltd, but these are not intended to be forecasts, forward-looking
statements or statements about future matters for the purposes of the
Corporations Act or any other applicable law. The occurrence of events in the
future is subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause New
Frontier Minerals Ltd's actual results, performance or achievements to differ
from those referred to in this announcement. Accordingly, New Frontier
Minerals Ltd, its directors, officers, employees, and agents, do not give any
assurance or guarantee that the occurrence of the events referred to in this
announcement will occur as contemplated. The interpretations and conclusions
reached in this announcement are based on current geological theory and the
best evidence available to the authors at the time of writing. It is the
nature of all scientific conclusions that they are founded on an assessment of
probabilities and, however high these probabilities might be, they make no
claim for complete certainty. Any economic decisions that might be taken based
on interpretations or conclusions contained in this announcement will
therefore carry an element of risk. The announcement may contain
forward-looking statements that involve several risks and uncertainties. These
risks include but are not limited to, economic conditions, stock market
fluctuations, commodity demand and price movements, access to infrastructure,
timing of approvals, regulatory risks, operational risks, reliance on key
personnel, Ore Reserve and Mineral Resource estimates, native title, foreign
currency fluctuations, exploration risks, mining development, construction,
and commissioning risk. These forward-looking statements are expressed in good
faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. These statements reflect
current expectations, intentions or strategies regarding the future and
assumptions based on currently available information. Should one or more of
the risks or uncertainties materialise, or should underlying assumptions prove
incorrect, actual results may vary from the expectations, intentions and
strategies described in this announcement. No obligation is assumed to update
forward-looking statements if these beliefs, opinions, and estimates should
change or to reflect other future developments.
APPENDIX A: JORC CODE, 2012 EDITION - TABLE 1
The following JORC Code (2012 Edition) Table 1 is primarily supplied to
provide background for geological mapping, and rock chip sampling programs,
mostly conducted by Barfuss Corporation and New Frontier Minerals Limited
since October 2024.
No previous ASX releases have been made about the Harts Range Nb-U-REE Mineral
Project.
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
Sampling techniques • Nature and quality of sampling (e.g. cut channels, random chips, or · Surface samples were collected from approximately a 3m radius
specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the around the recorded coordinate location. The rock chip fragments that were
minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF collected to make up the sample included fragments that approximately ranged
instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad from 2-5cm and 0.2 - 3kg in weight. A total of twenty-eight (28) rock chip
meaning of sampling. samples were collected in calico bags and were progressed for laboratory
analysis (sample numbers range from HR419 to 510). Samples were collected from
• Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity rock outcrops, soils, and occasionally mullock heaps in the vicinity of west
and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used. to east trending pegmatite dykes. Many of the surface samples contained the
U-bearing mineral samarskite.
• Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to
the Public Report.
• In cases where 'industry standard' work has been done this would be
relatively simple (e.g. 'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m
samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire
assay'). In other cases, more explanation may be required, such as where there
is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or
mineralisation types (e.g. submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of
detailed information.
Drilling techniques • • Drill type (e.g. core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, · Not Applicable - no exploration drilling results as none were
rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (e.g. core diameter, drilled.
triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face sampling bit or other
type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc).
Drill sample recovery • Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries · Not Applicable - no exploration drilling results as none were
and results assessed. drilled.
• Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative
nature of the samples.
• Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and
whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of
fine/coarse material.
Logging • Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and · Descriptions of the rock chip and soil samples are given in a table
geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral contained in Figure A1-1 of this CCZ's ASX Announcement dated the 14(TH) of
Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies. October 2024.
• Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or · Where appropriate strike and dip measurements were taken at several
costean, channel, etc) photography. sites, additional to the twenty (28) rock chip sample sites. Measuring
bedding is difficult because of the high metamorphically - disturbed rock
• The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections types.
logged.
Subsampling techniques and sample preparation • If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core · Of the sample collected about 0.3-2kg of rock chip were presented
taken. for analyses.
• If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and · Assays were done by independent laboratory Ultra Trace Pty Ltd at
whether sampled wet or dry. Canning Vale Perth WA (now Amdel Limited) throughout 2007 and 2008. The
samples were sorted and dried. Primary preparation was then by crushing the
• For all sample types, the nature, quality, and appropriateness of whole sample. The whole sample was pulverised in a vibrating disc pulveriser.
the sample preparation technique.
· All samples were initially crushed to 4 mm then pulverised to 75
• Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to microns, with at least 85% passing through 75 microns. Standard sample
maximise representivity of samples. preparation and analyses procedures were performed on all samples and are
considered appropriate techniques.
• Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the
in-situ material collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
• Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the
material being sampled.
Quality of assay data and laboratory tests • The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and Analytical Methods are described in detail as follows:
laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or
total. Au, Pt, Pd
• For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc, · The samples have been analysed by firing a 40g (approx.) portion of
the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and the sample. This is the classical fire assay process and will give total
model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc. separation of Gold, Platinum, and Palladium in the sample. These have been
determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Mass Spectrometry. The
• Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks, sample(s) have been digested with a mixture of acids including Hydrofluoric,
duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of Nitric, Hydrochloric and Perchloric Acids. This digest approaches a total
accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established. digest for many elements however some refractory oxides are not completely
attacked.
· The mineral Cassiterite is not efficiently attacked with this digest.
· If Barium occurs as the Sulphate mineral, then at high levels (more
than 4000 ppm) it may re-precipitate after the digest giving seriously low
results. Using this digest, some sulphur losses may occur if the samples
contain high levels of sulphide.
Cu, Zn, Co, Ni, Mn, P, Sc, V, Al, Ca, Na, K, S
have been determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Optical Emission
Spectrometry.
As, Ag, Ba, Be, Bi, Cd, Ga, Li, Mo, Pb, Sb, Sn, Sr, W, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm,
Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, Th, U, Se, In, Te, Cs, Re, Tl
· have been determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Mass
Spectrometry. The samples have been fused with Sodium Peroxide and
subsequently the melt has been dissolved in dilute Hydrochloric acid for
analysis. Because of the high furnace temperatures, volatile elements are
lost. This procedure is particularly efficient for determination of Major
element composition (Including Silica) in the samples or for the determination
of refractory mineral species.
B, Cr, Si, Fe, Mg, Ti
· have been determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Optical
Emission Spectrometry.
Ge, Ta, Hf, Zr, Nb, Rb
· have been determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Mass
Spectrometry.
· The assay results were in line with previous rock chip and
drilling results obtained since 2006 at Harts Range.
Verification of sampling and assaying • The verification of significant intersections by either independent · Independent Laboratory assaying by Ultra Trace has confirmed,
or alternative company personnel. within acceptable limits, the occurrences of high-grade Nb, U, and REE from
the initial in field XRF readings. Laboratory standards and duplicates were
• The use of twinned holes. used in accordance with standard procedures for geochemical assaying as noted
below.
• Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data
verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols. · It has met the recommended insertion rates for the company QAQC
controls (standards, blanks) with an overall insertion rate of 20%. However,
• Discuss any adjustment to assay data. no field duplicates were included in the three (3) batches and is recommended
that 3% be included in future sampling programs. Summary of QAQC insertion
rates.
· Both the company standards and blanks were verified for elements
Nb, U and Dy and returned results within 2 standard deviations (SD). Field
duplicates are not present in the batch therefore were not reviewed.
Location of data points • Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar · The spatial location for the rock chips and soils collected during
and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in the 2006 and 2007 fieldwork were collected by handheld GPS (-/+ 5m accuracy)
Mineral Resource estimation. [MGA94 Zone53]: The table of reported rock chip locations and descriptions are
given in throughout the ASX release and in Figure A1-1 (at the end of the
• Specification of the grid system used. section).
• Quality and adequacy of topographic control.
Data spacing and distribution • Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. · The Harts Range licenses lie north-west of the Entia Dome and are
underlain by the Harts Range Group (Harts Range Meta-igneous Complex), which
• Whether the data spacing, and distribution is sufficient to predominantly consists of feldspar-biotite-amphibole-garnet gneisses. The
establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Harts Range region at has undergone repeated and substantial crustal reworking
Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications between Proterozoic and Palaeozoic times and is now thought to represent an
applied. ancient and strongly altered/metamorphosed version of a continental collision
zone.
• Whether sample compositing has been applied.
· Most of the observed mineralisation is related to a swarm of west to
east and southeast-trending pegmatite dykes, with an anomalous occurrence of
the U-bearing mineral samarskite.
· At the Cusp Prospect, niobium-HREE-Tantalum identified in pegmatites
running approximately east-west, up to 10 metres thick and over 70 metres
long.
· At Bob's Prospect niobium-HREE-Tantalum mineralisation in pegmatites
trend east-west and is several metres thick and over 30 metres long, with
similar geological setting to the Cusp Prospect.
· 200m west of Bobs (Bobs West), outcropping pegmatite along the same
orientation, hosted exclusively within felsic gneiss of the Irindina Gneiss.
The pegmatite is semi-continuous for ~300m with a similar geological setting
and has notably large green muscovite flakes present.
· The Niobium Anomaly Prospect is another variant with high Niobium
results but low in rare earths and uranium. Elevated radiometrics located with
the scintillometer recorded 1,300 cps within a small historic pit at the top
of a knoll. Anomalies appear to correlate with intrusions of porphyritic
"granitoid" and granitic gneiss, which are geologically consistent with the
pegmatites mapped at Bob's and the Cusp Prospects.
· The Thorium Anomaly Prospect was previously located via airborne
radiometric images. The radiometric anomalies are low order (10 to 20x
background) compared to the spot anomalies at Bob's and Cusp (50-200x
background). Anomalies appear to correlate with intrusions of porphyritic
"granitoid" and granitic gneiss, which presumably are geologically features
like the pegmatites at Bob's and the Cusp Prospects.
Orientation of data in relation to geological structure • Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of · In general, the strata of the area surrounding the pegmatite dykes in
possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the the Harts Range Meta-Igneous Complex dip steeply (>45 degrees) to the north
deposit type. and strike between east to southeast.
• If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the · Rock chip samples were taken at areas of interest from observed
orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a mineralisation along and across strike of the line of lode of the mineralised
sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material. pegmatite dyke (very generally east west tends, secondary structures,
surrounding spoil heaps, and across the four (4) anomalous areas originally
identified in the planning stage.
· However, no modern systematic exploration has been conducted, nor any
of the mineralised prospects have ever been drilled.
Sample security • The measures taken to ensure sample security. · The rock chip samples taken during the historical fieldwork were
securely locked within the vehicle on site until delivered to Alice Springs by
the field personnel for despatch to the laboratory (Ultra Trace in WA) by
courier.
Audits or reviews • The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and · The sampling techniques and the data generated from the laboratory
data. assay results have been peer reviewed by consultant geologists independent of
Castillo Copper Limited (Audax Resources and ROM Resources) familiar with the
overall Harts Range Project and deemed to be acceptable.
· No other external audits sampling techniques and data have yet been
planned or undertaken.
FIGURE A1-1: HARTS RANGE PROJECT - VARIOUS SURFACE SAMPLES LOCATIONS AND
DESCRIPTIONS
Sample ID Prospect Name Easting Northing AHD Type Rock Type Lab Job# Niobium (Nb) Uranium (U) Yttrium (Y) Tantalum (Ta) Dysprosium (Dy) Terbium (Tb) Full Description
% % % % % %
HR419 Cusp Prospect 507843.0 7447754.0 622.0 Grab sub-crop composite PEG U109728 17.5 10.1 5.6 9.3 1.1 0.18 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dense brittle blackish lustrous radioactive mineral;
weathered broken mass (ca. 10 fragments up to several cm diam.); in weathered
extremely coarse mica zone on N side of quartz vein in core of E-W pegmatite
HR420 Cusp Prospect 507859.3 7447754.0 625.0 Sub-crop composite PEG U109728 1.1 0.2 16.0 0.9 0.0 0.05 MICA (weathered muscovite); weathered extremely coarse mica; on S side of
quartz vein in core of pegmatite; same site as (radioactive) HR421
HR421 Cusp Prospect 507859.3 7447754.0 625.0 Sub-crop & float (near in situ) composite PEG U109728 22.7 11.0 6.9 5.5 1.6 0.24 SAMARSKITE (&/or similar): dense brittle blackish radioactive mineral,
some platy; float on & sub-crop in weathered extremely coarse mica zone on
S side of quartz vein in core of E-W pegmatite; some attached to quartz; same
site as HR420
HR423 NB Anomaly 510122.0 7450655.0 592.0 Outcrop composite PEG U109728 1.3 0.018 0.029 n/a 0.004 <0.001 GRANITIC (-pegmatitic) DYKE: pink-grey m-coarse grained feldspar-quartz; ca.
0.5-1m band in gneiss.
HR424 NB Anomaly 510105.0 7450423.0 608.0 Channel (~2.5m) (rough) (selective) AMP U109728 1.3 0.007 0.015 0.008 0.003 <0.001 CHLORITE: ca. 2.5m-thick zone of extremely coarse pale greenish chlorite; inc.
thin bands hornblende-actinolite rock & leucocratic gneiss/amphibolite
(not sampled) (= attenuated equivalent of amphibolite-anorthosite +
meta-ultramafic unit to NE, where it passes (here) through a thick
epidote-rock zone)
HR425 NB Anomaly 510105.0 7450423.0 608.0 Channel (~2.5m) (rough) (selective) AMP U109728 1.3 0.003 0.006 0.001 0.001 <0.001 AMPHIBOLITE (& anorthosite): composite of thin bands of
hornblende-actinolite rock & leucocratic gneiss/amphibolite, occurring in
ca. 2.5m-thick zone of extremely coarse pale greenish chlorite (sample HR425)
(= attenuated equivalent of amphibolite-anorthosite + meta-ultramafic unit to
NE, where it passes (here) through a thick epidote-rock zone)
HR480 Cusp Prospect 507834.3 7447748.5 620.0 Float (near in situ) PEG U109905 21.0 11.4 8.0 7.0 1.7 0.27 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dense brittle blackish lustrous radioactive mineral;
two fragments (larger up to 2-4cm) on soil cover along S side of quartz vein
in pegmatite core
HR481 Cusp Prospect 507843.5 7447749.8 626.0 Scree/float composite (near in situ) PEG U109905 16.3 10.4 3.3 11.0 0.7 0.1 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dense brittle blackish lustrous radioactive mineral;
five fragments (ca. 1 cm) in soil cover along S side of quartz vein in
pegmatite core
HR482 Cusp Prospect 507847.7 7447751.5 623.0 Grab (sub-crop) PEG U109905 23.2 12.1 8.6 5.9 1.9 0.29 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dense brittle blackish lustrous radioactive mineral;
one fragment (ca. 1-2 cm) in/on weathered coarse mica beneath soil cover along
S side of quartz vein in pegmatite core
HR483 Cusp Prospect 507848.8 7447751.8 623.0 Grab outcrop composite PEG U109905 23.0 12.2 8.1 6.6 1.7 0.27 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dense brittle blackish lustrous radioactive mineral;
cluster of 14+ fragments (or broken weathered larger piece - ca. 10 cm) in
weathered coarse mica beneath soil cover along S side of quartz vein in
pegmatite core (trace reddish resinous betafite also at site - excluded from
sample)
HR484 Cusp Prospect 507848.8 7447751.8 623.0 Grab outcrop composite QUARTZ U109905 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.0 <0.01 QUARTZ: smoky grey quartz from pegmatite (or quartz vein) beside radioactive
sample HR483 site
HR485 Cusp Prospect 507836.3 7447748.5 621.0 Float/sub-crop (in situ) PEG U109905 24.0 11.6 7.9 5.9 1.8 0.27 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dense brittle blackish lustrous radioactive mineral;
one fragment (ca. 1-2 cm) at base of soil, on weathered coarse mica along S
side of quartz vein in pegmatite core
HR486 Cusp Prospect 507849.8 7447752.0 623.0 Float composite (near in situ) PEG U109905 0.206 0.112 0.074 0.041 0.016 0.0025 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dense brittle blackish lustrous radioactive mineral;
three fragments (ca. 1-3 cm) in soil cover along S side of quartz vein in
pegmatite core
HR487 Cusp Prospect 507852.5 7447752.0 624.0 Grab (sub-crop) PEG U109905 20.0 11.2 8.3 5.2 1.8 0.27 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dense brittle blackish lustrous radioactive mineral;
two fragments (ca. 1-2 cm) in weathered coarse mica beneath soil cover along S
side of quartz vein in pegmatite core
HR488 Cusp Prospect 507854.5 7447752.5 629.0 Grab outcrop composite QUARTZ U109905 19.4 11.3 7.8 4.7 1.7 0.26 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dense brittle blackish lustrous radioactive mineral;
cluster of 10+ fragments, most over 1cm (or broken weathered larger piece -
ca. 5-10 cm) in chalky white feldspar, beside weathered coarse mica beneath
soil cover along S side of quartz vein in pegmatite core
HR490 Cusp Prospect 507850.8 7447755.3 626.0 Float composite (near in situ) PEG U109905 18.0 11.3 7.3 6.3 1.5 0.24 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dense brittle blackish lustrous radioactive mineral;
five fragments (ca. 1-2 cm) beneath soil, in/on contact of coarse mica zone
and feldspar pegmatite rock; along N side of quartz vein in pegmatite core
HR499 Bobs Prospect 506312.0 7447586.0 - Scree composite (2 frags, in soil, near in situ) SMK U115520 3.0 11.5 10.0 13.4 1.4 0.19 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey black to red brown (slightly translucent)
mineral; irregular crystalline fragments; with surface coating (1-3mm) of
light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly Radioactive
HR500 Bobs Prospect 506308.0 7447585.0 - Scree composite (14 frags, below soil, in situ) SMK U115520 3.2 9.2 8.8 13.9 1.2 0.16 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey black to red brown (translucent) mineral;
irregular crystalline fragments, mostly < ca. 1cm (not broken); with
surface coating (1-3mm) of light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly
Radioactive
HR501 Bobs Prospect 506306.5 7447584.5 - Scree composite (11 frags, in soil, near in situ) SMK U115520 3.1 10.6 9.2 14.7 1.2 0.17 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey black to red-brown mineral; irregular
crystalline fragments, mostly < ca. 1.5cm (not broken); with surface
coating (1-3mm) of light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly Radioactive
HR502 Bobs Prospect 506304.0 7447583.5 - Scree composite (12 frags, below soil, in situ) SMK U115520 3.1 10.0 9.2 13.5 1.2 0.17 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey black to red brown (translucent) mineral;
irregular crystalline fragments, mostly < ca. 1cm (not broken); with
surface coating (1-3mm) of light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly.
Radioactive
HR503 Bobs Prospect 506296.0 7447580.0 - Float composite (7 frags, in soil, near in situ) SMK U115520 3.3 11.2 11.1 14.7 1.5 0.21 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey black to red brown (translucent) mineral;
irregular crystalline fragments, mostly < ca. 1cm (not broken); with
surface coating (1-3mm) of light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly.
radioactive; inc. flattish tabular "lozenge"-shaped crystals; + one fragment
ca. 4cm diam.
HR504 Bobs Prospect 506294.0 7447578.5 - Scree composite (18 frags, below soil, in situ) SMK U115520 3.2 10.5 9.9 14.0 1.3 0.19 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey black to red-brown mineral; irregular
crystalline fragments, mostly < ca. 1.5cm (not broken); with surface
coating (1-3mm) of light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly Radioactive
HR505 Bobs Prospect 506292.5 7447578.0 - Float composite (3 frags, in soil, near source) SMK U115520 3.4 11.1 10.9 14.3 1.5 0.22 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey-black mineral; irregular crystalline
fragments, few very small fragments only (< 2-4 mm); with surface coating
of light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly. radioactive
HR506 Bobs Prospect 506289.5 7447575.5 - Float composite (3 frags, in soil, near in situ) SMK U115520 3.2 11.7 11.1 14.2 1.5 0.18 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey-black mineral; irregular crystalline
fragments, few very small fragments only (< 2-6 mm); with surface coating
of light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly. Radioactive
HR507 Bobs Prospect 506294.0 7447576.0 - Float composite (3 frags, in soil, may be from HR509 site) SMK U115520 3.3 11.9 10.2 14.0 0.1 0.18 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey-black mineral; irregular crystalline
fragments, few very small fragments only (< 2-4 mm); with surface coating
of light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly. radioactive (may be lag from
HR509 site)
HR508 Bobs Prospect 506295.0 7447576.0 - Float composite (3 frags, in soil, may be from HR509 site) SMK U115520 3.4 11.3 11.4 14.9 1.5 0.21 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey-black mineral; irregular crystalline
fragments, few small fragments only (< 2-4 mm); with surface coating of
light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly. radioactive (may be lag from
HR509 site)
HR509 Bobs Prospect 506295.0 7447577.0 - Scree composite (9 frags, below soil, in situ) SMK U115520 3.1 12.7 10.5 14.5 1.5 0.19 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey black to red-brown mineral; irregular
crystalline fragments, mostly < ca. 1.5cm (not broken); with surface
coating (1-3mm) of light greenish yellow tan oxidation; strongly Radioactive
HR510 Bobs Prospect 506298.5 7447578.0 - From weathered sub-crop, 21 frags; in situ SMK U115520 2.9 12.6 10.0 12.3 1.5 0.19 SAMARSKITE (or similar): dark grey black to red-brown mineral; irregular
crystalline fragments, mostly < ca. 1cm (not broken); in weathered
pegmatite; with surface coating (1-3mm) of light greenish yellow tan
oxidation; strongly .radioactive (fragments embedded in pegmatite also found
here - not included in sample)
Source: Barfuss Corporation (Reference 1)
FIGURE B1-1: SAMPLE DESCRIPTIONS
Sample ID Easting Northing Location Samarskite Estimate % Description
HRS001 506304 7447586 Bobs 0-1 Grey, dense pegmatite. Fine grain texture comprised of quartz, microcline
feldspar and muscovite, ~1cm wide rock chip samples. Varying degree of
radiation ranging between 15-100 mSv. Samples collected from ~1foot deep into
weathered pegmatite
HRS002 506296 7447583 Bobs 0-5 Grey, dense pegmatite. Fine grain texture comprised of quartz, microcline
feldspar and muscovite ~1cm wide rock chip samples. Varying degree of
radiation ranging between 15-100 micro mSv. Additional dense and dark
minerals, metallic lustre, ~ 0.5cm, ranging between 15-100 mSv. Samples
collected from ~1foot deep into weathered pegmatite.
HRS003A 507859 7447753 Cusp 2-15 Samarskite pegmatite. Hard black minerals, metallic lustre. Very dense.
Ranging in size from 0.5cm-4cm. Ranging in radiation from 20-100 mSv. Samples
collected using geo pick from fresh pegmatite.
*Mineralised crystal sample present in quartz. Hand specimen ~4cm. Image
attached.
HRS003B 507860 7447755 Cusp Nil Pegmatite, appears unmineralised.
HRS004 507859 7447754 Cusp 1-10 Samarskite pegmatite. Hard black minerals, metallic lustre. Very dense.
Ranging in size from 0.5cm-4cm. Ranging in radiation from 20-100 mSv. Samples
collected using geo pick from fresh pegmatite.
Notes: Coordinates in MGA94Z53S
Source: NFM geology team
FIGURE B1-2: TREO RESULTS
FP6/MS TREO (ppm)
Description Ag Th U Ce La Y Dy Er Eu Gd Ho Lu Nd Pr Sm Tb Tm Yb
Sample ID ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm
HRS001 Pegmatite <2 11,061 114,346 485 233 93,860 13,498 7,419 184 5,642 2,535 782 1,073 142 1,807 1,715 1,127 7,175
Bobs
Avge. Element 11,061 114,346 485 233 93,860 13,498 7,419 184 5,642 2,535 782 1,073 142 1,807 1,715 1,127 7,175
Avge.Oxide 595 273 119,193 15,492 8,483 213 6,503 2,904 889 1,252 172 2,883 2,018 1,287 8,170 170,328
HRS002 Pegmatite <2 10,794 119,047 429 115 108,080 14,212 7,841 189 6,136 2,678 841 1,032 118 1,954 1,845 1,203 7,777
HRS002D Duplicate <2 10,559 117,776 437 116 106,972 14,359 ,791 219 6,148 2,693 834 1,046 119 1,974 1,855 1,186 7,565
Bobs
Avge. Element 10,677 118,411 433 116 107,526 14,285 7,816 204 6,142 2,686 838 1,039 118 1,964 1,850 1,195 7,671
Avge.Oxide 531 136 136,547 16,395 8,937 236 7,079 3,077 953 1,212 143 3,134 2,176 1,364 8,735 190,655
HRS003A Samaskarite 14 11,440 85,639 2,201 684 56,791 11,220 4,077 164 7,309 1,687 344 3,013 426 3,429 1,756 559 3,334
Cusp
Avge. Element 11,440 85,639 2,201 684 56,791 11,220 4,077 164 7,309 1,687 344 3,013 426 3,429 1,756 559 3,334
Avge.Oxide 2,704 802 72,119 12,877 4,663 189 8,424 1,933 391 3,514 514 5,473 2,066 638 3,797 120,105
HRS003B Pegmatite <2 81 614 12 3 438 80 29 1 53 12 3 20 3 24 13 4 25
Cusp
Avge. Element 81 614 12 3 438 80 29 1 53 12 3 20 3 24 13 4 25
Avge.Oxide 15 4 556 92 33 1 61 14 3 23 3 39 15 4 28 891
HRS004 Samaskarite 12 9,652 72,383 716 61 48,979 9,861 3,590 144 6,319 1,517 309 2,024 212 2,829 1,525 492 2,964
Cusp
Avge. Element 9,652 72,383 716 61 48,979 9,861 3,590 144 6,319 1,517 309 2,024 212 2,829 1,525 492 2,964
Avge.Oxide 880 72 62,199 11,317 4,105 167 7,283 1,737 351 2,361 257 4,514 1,794 562 3,375 100,973
Notes: Coordinates in MGA94Z53S
Source: NFM geology team
Prospect Sample ID Easting Northing Date Collected Description Radioactivity (µS)
Dune HRS006 510106 7450427 19/11/24 amphibolite schist. 0.4
HRS007 510122 7450655 19/11/24 Granite/pegmatite -
Cusp North HRS008 507726 7448141 19/11/24 Felsic schist, copper enriched -
HRS009 507730 7448076 19/11/24 Felsic schist, copper enriched -
HRS010 507737 7448047 19/11/24 Felsic schist -
Cusp HRS011 507848 7447749 19/11/24 Biotite pegmatite -
HRS012 507848 7447755 19/11/24 Muscovite pegmatite -
Bobs North HRS013 505947 7448424 20/11/24 Biotite pegmatite, copper enriched -
Bobs West HRS014 506097 7447593 20/11/24 Muscovite pegmatite, 2% K from PXRF 1.5
HRS015 506104 7447590 20/11/24 Muscovite pegmatite, 6% K from PXRF
Big Jay HRS016 506736 7445987 21/11/24 Pegmatite 0.50
HRS017 506775 7445989 21/11/24 Pegmatite 0.70
HRS018 506686 7445972 21/11/24 Pegmatite 0.50
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
(Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this section.)
Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
Mineral tenement and land tenure status • Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including · The Harts Range Project lies in the south-east of the Northern
agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, Territory, roughly 120 kilometres north-east of Alice Springs. Two granted
partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, tenements (EL 32046 and 32513) comprising a total 110 km(2) tenement package
wilderness or national park and environmental settings. is located near essential infrastructure and accessible via the Plenty
Highway.
• The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with
any known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area. in the · A check on the tenures status was completed in the NTGS system
area. 'Strike' on the 10 of October 2024, to validate the currentness of the
exploration areas. All are current.
· The region is serviced by excellent roads (Stuart Highway), train
(the famous Ghan rail) and bus links connect the area.
· Domestic and some international flights are available from Alice
Springs (1 hour drive south of Harts Range) while all international flights
are available direct from Darwin.
· As a major regional centre, the town of Alice Springs provides public
and private schools. There are churches, supermarkets, speciality shops,
hotels, motels, cafés & restaurants, medical centres.
· There is a professional police and emergency services presence
throughout the area. Local professional and trade services support the
community and the mining industry. Mobile phone and internet access are good.
Exploration done by other parties • Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties. · Historical "Strike"-based mineral exploration reports have been
reviewed for historical tenures that cover or partially cover the Project Area
in this announcement. Federal and State Government reports supplement the
historical mineral exploration reporting (QDEX open file exploration records).
· Most explorers were searching for either Cu-Au-U, gemstones, or
industrial minerals in the 1990's, and proving satellite deposit style
extensions to the several small subeconomic uranium or copper deposits.
· The project is flanked by Independence Group (IGO) to the north,
south and west. IGO is exploring for a raft of critical battery minerals.
Geology • Deposit type, geological setting, and style of mineralisation. Regional Geology
· The Harts Range Niobium, Uranium-Heavy Rare Earth Project lies
north-west of the Entia Dome (Figure A2-1) and is underlain by the Harts Range
Group (Harts Range Meta-igneous Complex), which predominantly consists of
feldspar-biotite-amphibole-garnet gneisses.
· The Harts Range region has undergone repeated and substantial crustal
re-working between Proterozoic and Palaeozoic times. As a result, it is now
believed to represent an ancient and strongly altered/metamorphosed version of
a continental collision zone.
· Magnetotellurics data interpreted by a team consisting of Adelaide
University and NTGS geologists (Selway et al, 2006) suggests the Entia Dome
system is a deep-crustal feature that can be shown extending to the mantle.
· The below maps (Figures A2-2 and A2-3) show a traverse through the
Arunta from north to south and skirted around the dome to the east and
highlighting a major subduction zone to the north of the dome. The latter
diagram shows the distribution of regional stratigraphic units.
FIGURES A2-1: REGIONAL STRUCTURE PLAN
FIGURE A2-2: WEST TO EAST REGIONAL CRUSTAL CROSS-SECTION
FIGURE A2-3: REGIONAL GEOLOGY
Local Geology
· The main rock types mapped and sampled at various REE Prospects
include:
o Biotite Schist/Granofels: brown-blackish biotite-rich rock; thin (5-10cm)
poorly exposed zone on N side of ~6m thick unit/zone of similar rock (e.g.
HR398, HR399 sites) (on N side of HR399).
o Pegmatite, apatite-bearing: scree frags near W end of E-W pegmatite, near
intersection with north-south calcite vein; very coarse-grained
feldspar-quartz with common coarse apatite - pale semi-translucent slightly
greenish (rare honey-brown) blocky/tabular/hexagonal, some intergrown with
feldspar/quartz.
o Garnet-Cummingtonite rock: coarse-grained rock; with abundant interstitial
pale greenish malachite-magnesite material; small patch of sub-crop amongst
scree.
o Gneiss: weathered, moderately banded, fine-to-medium grained
quartz-feldspar-hornblende-garnet; some coarser quartz-garnet rock; some brown
haematite on fractures; sample below HR444.
o Ultramafics: slightly weathered medium grained, greenish/brownish
amphibole/olivine-dominated meta-ultramafic.
o Amphibolite: grey fine-grained hornblende -quartz rock; (approx. adjacent
rough channel samples: HR461 (1m) above HR462 (3m) above HR463 (3m) above
HR464 (1m)).
o Samarskite (or similar), being a dense brittle blackish lustrous
radioactive mineral; cluster of 10+ fragments, most over 1cm (or broken
weathered larger piece - ca. 5-10 cm) in chalky white feldspar, beside
weathered coarse mica beneath soil cover along southern side of quartz vein in
a pegmatite core.
Drillhole • A summary of all information material to the understanding of the · Not Applicable - no exploration drilling results presented.
exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for
Information all Material drill holes: o easting and northing of the drill hole collar
o elevation or RL (Reduced Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of
the drill hole collar
o dip and azimuth of the hole o down hole length and interception depth o
hole length.
• If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that
the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the
understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why
this is the case.
Data aggregation methods • In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, · Independent Laboratory Assay results for the 28 rock chip samples
maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high grades) and from various Harts Range Prospects were averaged if more than one reading or
cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated. determination was given. There was no cutting of high-grade REE results as
they are directly relatable to high grade mineralisation styles readily
• Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high-grade visible in the relevant samples.
results and longer lengths of low-grade results, the procedure used for such
aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations · There were no cut-off grades factored into any reporting of the
should be shown in detail. laboratory assay results.
• The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values
should be clearly stated.
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths • These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of · The 2006-7 rock chip and soil samples were taken at areas of interest
Exploration Results. from observed mineralisation along the line of lode of the mineralised
pegmatite dyke, secondary structures, and surrounding spoil heaps.
• If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole Twenty-one (21) rock chip samples collected from rock faces and/or outcrops.
angle is known, its nature should be reported.
· Eight (8) rock chip samples collected from stockpiles, shaft waste
• If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, piles, and/or boulders of rock onsite.
there should be a clear statement to this effect (e.g. 'down hole length, true
width not known').
Diagrams • Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of · Appropriate diagrams are presented in the body and the Appendices of
intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported the current ASX Release. Where scales are absent from the diagram, grids have
These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar been included and clearly labelled to act as a scale for distance.
locations and appropriate sectional views.
· Maps and Plans presented in the current ASX Release are in MGA94 Zone
53, Eastings (mN), and Northing (mN), unless clearly labelled otherwise.
Balanced reporting • Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not · Rock chip samples were taken at areas of interest from observed
practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or mineralisation along the line of lode of the mineralised pegmatite dyke,
widths should be practiced avoiding misleading reporting of Exploration secondary structures, surrounding spoil heaps, and to the north and south of
Results. the line of lode to check the validity of the defined four (4) anomalous map
areas.
Other substantive exploration data • • Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be · The area is covered by regional airborne government and private
reported including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical radiometric, gravity, magnetic, and hyperspectral surveys. Unfortunately,
survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples - size and method of other than the 2006 radiometric ground survey, no other ground surveys have
treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical been undertaken.
and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances.
· Substantial historical and current ground geochemical (stream
sediment, soil, and rock chip samples have been undertaken and two episodes of
shallow drilling, mostly for industrial minerals (gemstones and vermiculite)
by the owners of the leases, since 2006.
Further work • The nature and scale of planned further work (e.g. tests for lateral o A future exploration strategy should encompass the following steps in
extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling). subsequent field programs:
• Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, o Reconnaissance mapping programs.
including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas,
provided this information is not commercially sensitive. o Close-spaced radiometric geophysical surveys.
o Detailed mapping and rock chip sampling across prospects.
o Regional soil sampling campaigns.
o Mineral characterisation studies and petrological analysis.
o Target generation and prioritisation; and
o Exploratory drill-testing.
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